Committee for Geelong

04/06/2026

Join us for our Annual Dinner
Celebrating 25 years

Wednesday 15 July at Geelong Convention and Event Centre

A stunning three course dinner and drinks, shaped by our region and reflecting the flavours of Geelong and the Bellarine.

We will celebrate this milestone by looking back over the past 25 years in a fireside chat with the eminent Brian Cook AM. We will then look forward to the next 25 years with global city advisor, Ludo Campbell-Reid.

Tickets $220 incl GST

Tickets available on the Committee for Geelong website

02/06/2026

How do you lead well and act purposefully in complex systems?

That was the question the 2026 Leaders for Geelong cohort sat with at their third Future Fit Leadership Day this week — beginning outdoors at Johnstone Park with Dr Jayne-Louise Collins, and working through to an afternoon of strategic design practice with David Spear.

The day wasn’t about adding tools to a toolkit. It was about developing the capacity to read complex systems accurately, and to respond with intention rather than habit — whether that’s in your organisation, your community project, or the region you’re helping to shape.

The participants are now entering the next phase of the program — their community projects. This year, the cohort will partner with five local organisations to tackle regional challenges: , , , , and .

26/05/2026

“For four years running, Australians have rated APCO highest for customer satisfaction and at the heart of that achievement are the people who show up every day to serve their local communities with care, consistency, and genuine connection.”

Our latest member op ed dropped on Friday, with Jess Guareschi from sharing the story of the people behind APCO’s success.

Geelong’s growth as a region is underpinned by the success of local businesses- growing, investing, and creating opportunity for their people.

Read the full piece here: https://www.committeeforgeelong.com.au/post/the-people-behind-apco-s-fourth-canstar-win

APCO’s fourth consecutive Canstar Blue award for Most Satisfied Customers - Petrol & Service Stations is something we are incredibly proud of, but for us, this recognition has always been about our people.

21/05/2026

The Vopak Victoria Energy Terminal Environment Effects Statement (EES), as well as the draft PSA, Pipeline Licence and Development Licence applications are now on public exhibition until Friday 26 June 2026.
The EES public exhibition will provide the public the opportunity to learn more about the project’s potential impacts, proposed mitigation measures and make a written submission.

How to have your say on the project:
View the EES and supporting materials online via the Victoria Energy Terminal website: victoriaenergyterminal.com.au/ees
Make a submission before the exhibition closing date. Submissions can be lodged via the online form on the Victorian government’s engagement website Engage Victoria:
engage.vic.gov.au/Vopak-IAC

An Inquiry and Advisory Committee is collecting submissions to consider the environmental effects of the proposed Vopak Victoria Energy Terminal Link Project.

21/05/2026

This week, 17-24 May, is National Road Safety Week.

We are joining the in sharing the importance of road safety this week.

Every moment matters on our roads. That means slowing down, buckling up, starting your drive well rested, planning ahead if aclohol is involved and importantly, removing distractions to stay focussed on driving.

These everyday choices add up, they protect lives and help prevent tragedies.

Pledge to drive so others survive!

14/05/2026

“The next wave of major infrastructure investment in Geelong, particularly in transport and city‑shaping projects, has not yet been secured.

This Budget reinforces the importance of partnership between all levels of government.

With the Victorian State Election approaching, this creates an important opportunity.”

Read our full federal budget analysis here-

The 2026/27 Federal Budget has been delivered. Here's what it means for the Greater Geelong Region.

08/05/2026

Last night we hosted our latest member event; Re-imagining the night- a guided experience in the city after dark.

Thanks to our event partners and , our guide Tim Hunt (ably assisted by Nat Anson), took attendees through the impact of light on how we experience a city after dark.

This was not just a presentation, this was an immersive experience, as attendees took place in a guided night walk through the CBD.

The experience showed there are some great examples of safe and welcoming environments in Central Geelong at night, but also some opportunities for improvement.

The Committee will take the learnings from the experience and use this to advocate for positive and impactful changes that can make the city feel even more welcoming.

05/05/2026

In delivering the budget, Premier Jacinta Allan said “budgets are about choices”.

The choices we make today will affect the future of our city. The choices made through this year’s election campaign will also affect the future of our city.

This is why the Committee will continue its staunch advocacy for our region. As the voice of Future Geelong, we will continue to work with the Government, and all sides of politics, in ensuring the choice for investing in growth is clear. The choice is Geelong.

Read our full budget analysis and what it means for Geelong here:

https://www.committeeforgeelong.com.au/post/2026-27-state-budget-re-cap

The 2026/27 Victorian Budget has been delivered. Here's what it means for the Greater Geelong Region.

29/04/2026

The 2026 Activate Leadership Program kicked off this week, bringing participants together for their first session with facilitator Catherine Bell- setting the tone for 8 weeks of curiosity, challenge, and growth.

The day focused on connection, self-discovery, and exploring what leadership means on a personal level. Participants also heard from our CEO Michael Johnston on the opportunities and challenges shaping the Geelong region, alongside a candid panel with Brooke Hyland , Nat McColl, and Nat Anson, who shared honest insights from their leadership journeys.

A strong foundation has been set for the learning and growth ahead.

27/04/2026

“By safeguarding the Circular Economy, we can unlock a spectrum of economic and environmental benefits for the entire community.”

In this month’s Geelong Advertiser Member Op Ed, Nick Stuhlener from Waste Services Pty Ltd outlines why Geelong’s next chapter depends on protecting industrial land, accelerating circular economy investment and planning beyond short‑term growth pressures. As the city transitions from its manufacturing past, these decisions will be critical to securing jobs, essential services and sustainable growth for Future Geelong.

Read the full opinion piece here

https://www.committeeforgeelong.com.au/post/geelong-from-ford-s-final-assembly-to-a-thriving-circular-future